Artful Adventures

ART THROUGHOUT THE CITY ADDS TO OMAHA’S COLORFUL PERSONALITY

Omaha is home to an expansive selection of public art and art-based museums and centers, most of which offer free admission.

For a space with a creative, open and urban feel, visit KANEKO. This downtown cultural space based in three turn-of-the-century warehouses was founded by world-renowned artist Jun Kaneko and wife Ree. The venue hosts innovative artists, exhibitions, performances and events which explore the creative process in a distinctive way.

Pioneer Courage Park

Across the street from KANEKO is Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Founded by artists for artists, Bemis provides residency for creatives from around the world. Visitors will find inspiration in ever-changing art exhibitions featuring work from both new and seasoned artists, along with innovative public programs. For an interactive art experience, drop by Hot Shops Art Center – named for “hot shops” featuring glass blowing, pottery and bronze casting. Over 80 studio artists welcome you to visit, explore and view this 92,000 sq. ft. warehouse. View evolving exhibitions at its four art galleries, create your own masterpiece at an on-going class or workshop, and attend one of their popular bi-annual open houses. Pack those walking shoes and discover Omaha’s public art on foot; there are more than 350 public art displays to discover throughout the city. Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Parks, one of the world’s largest collections of bronze and stainless steel, spans five city blocks downtown and features 123 pieces and installations depicting Omaha’s pioneer history. A quick walk from there is the 32,000 sq. ft. mural Fertile Ground, one of the country’s largest public murals. Head east to see Monument to Labor, the second largest labor monument in the United States.

Colorful murals painted by local artists span the city, especially in Omaha’s historic neighborhoods. The South Omaha Mural Project murals depict the diversity of the area. A new mural in Florence pays homage to the area’s historic roots. See plenty more street art in North Omaha, downtown, North downtown, Benson and more.

American flags line the entrance to the iconic white stone structure at Memorial Park, where Omaha artists pay special tribute to military veterans. The 67-acre memorial, dedicated by President Harry S. Truman in 1948, honors men and women who have served in the armed forces. View numerous bronze statues honoring World War II, Korean and Vietnam veterans. The park also includes a garden filled with 1,000 rose bushes.

The Schriers recommend a music venue inside the Bemis Center for Contemporary Art called LOW END that offers live shows.

SOCIAL MEDIA CENTRAL

Snap a pic with these iconic Omaha works of art

STILE DE FAMIGLIA “FAMILY STYLE” 1115 S. 7th St. A 13 ft. fork in the heart of Omaha’s historic Little Italy neighborhood.

MONUMENT TO LABOR 400 Riverfront Dr. Second largest labor monument in the United States.

ILLUMINA 455 N. 10th Street A collection of six bronze larger-than-life circus performers.

OMAR THE TROLL 705 Riverfront Dr. Omaha’s bluest resident greets friends under Bob the Bridge.